Navigating hidradenitis suppurativa triggers is tricky.
I would knowI have the condition myself.
What works for some doesnt work for others.
Sergey Filimonov/Adobe Stock
SELF:I wanted to start off with some basics.
How important is it for people with hidradenitis suppurativa to follow askin-care routine?
However, some patients with hidradenitis suppurativa may haveeczemaas well as other common skin diseases.
Should people with hidradenitis suppurativa avoid washcloths and loofahs?
Do those things irritate the abscesses or boils?
I think it depends on thestage of hidradenitis suppurativaand how severe it is.
I think it definitely could be painful for some.
But if they are in an early stage, I think it’s reasonable to use them.
What are some things people with hidradenitis suppurativa should avoid when it comes to pain management?
Applying a warm compress is probably one of the best things it’s possible for you to do.
Patients shouldnt take someone else’s pills or go above the recommended limits with pain medication.
And someone with hidradenitis suppurativa should not try and pop or lance an abscess themselves, correct?
In general, I would encourage patients not to do it themselves.
What are the risks of wearing tight clothing or using potentially irritating products like detergents or lotions?
You could get anallergic reactionor inflammation.
Thats why I would be cautious of the products someone is using.
In terms oftight clothing, the frictional component of rubbing on the skin is really the big concern.
Clothing that does not increase the amount of friction on the skin is the most important thing.
This is why there is a recommendation for loose-fitting clothing.
Do you recommend someone with hidradenitis suppurativa shave or try laser hair removal?
Most of my patientsshave.
If theyre not getting razor burn or irritation, its fine to do.
But if a patient notices their hidradenitis suppurativa symptoms are worsening, we need to alter their technique.
Laser hair removal has been shown to be helpful, if it can be done.
The challenges are cost and if your insurance will cover it.
How does weight play a role in hidradenitis suppurativa?
We dont totally know why, butthere is an associationbetween weight and hidradenitis suppurativa symptoms.
One hypothesis is that individuals who are heavier are more predisposed to more skin-on-skin contact, which causes friction.
Are there anyfitnessactivities that you think people with hidradenitis suppurativa should avoid?
Hidradenitis suppurativa patients have all different body shapes, so its hard to say what will or wont help.
Getting in the pool is a great thing to do first.
Its a low-impact, low-friction activity that helps patients get active and get their heart rate up.
That and walking are two activities I would first recommend.
Should those with hidradenitis suppurativa shower right after exercising?
But you want to see to it they are thin and wont clog the hair follicles.
Smoking and tobacco use is especially not recommended for people with this condition, correct?
Theres an association involved.
And theres no reason not to help patients stop smoking, no matter what.
If there is one lifestyle change to make to help with hidradenitis suppurativa, this is it.
Have you noticed that stress plays a role?
I think it plays a role in allskinand autoimmune diseases, and patientstend to flare during stressful times.
There are different triggers for everyone, but this one is common.
Sometimes its hard to address this, but I think there can behelpful tools.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
